Each week, #SpanningtheNeed will present an “Inspirational Person of the Week’ and have a “Q & A” with one of its many gifted individuals and/or groups who are willing to go out of their own way to help others. This week’s featured is Diane Less, Co-Founder from Angels for Animals.

Do you know anyone that goes above and beyond in the community….Nominate Someone Now

Name: Diane Less
Position: Co-Founder
Organization: Angels for Animals
Bio 1976-Fine Arts Major, Mount Union College, Alliance, Ohio

Art Director-Spotted Horse Studios-Commercial artist specializing in painting, sculpture and ceramics. 50 years in business with partner, Bill Baird doing vehicle graphics and custom signage- spottedhorsestudio.com. Founded Angels for Animals, June 1990 with Polly Hayes. My hobby job is to educate the public about animal care and especially the benefits to society and the individual regarding the importance of spaying and neutering.

What made you want to go into this field?
In video

What’s the biggest factor that has helped you be successful?
In video

What is the biggest professional mistake you made along the way?
I think as far as mistakes, I prefer to think of it as a series of corrections. Things have gone so well for this organization considering our business is unchartered There is nothing like Angels for Animals anywhere. It is truly a complete circle, guided by faith in God, that we do the right thing for animals.

What is the hardest decision you ever had to make in this field?
That we would strive to become an open access animal shelter so that no pets will be turned away, even when the outcome is not the one you desire.

If you could start all over again, what would you do differently regarding your profession?
As I said, every day is filled with questioning and constant course correction. It’s like going to the moon you just can’t get off course, or you will be lost.

What inspires you to do good in our community?
The desire to end the needless death and suffering of companion

What do you enjoy most about volunteering in our community?
Seeing people educated and enjoying their pets more because of it ..

What song best describes you or is the soundtrack to your life?
“On Eagles Wings” by Michael Joncas

What is your best accomplishment/experience in life?
The Angels for Animals complex-2019 Guinness Book of World Records- tallest cat tree and the Ohio Room mural at Beaver Creek Wildlife Center

Who is your role model and Why?
The Lord Jesus Christ

If there was one person that you would like to meet, past or present and why?
The Lord Jesus Christ

A favorite quote that you live by?
Help everyone you can, whenever you can. – Rule of St. Francis